Jardine: Report reflects changes since devolution

Edinburgh West MP Christine Jardine says a report on the relationship between the UK and Scottish Governments shows the need for changes to reflect devolution and described proposals as a potential move towards federalism.

The Scottish Affairs Committee report on intergovernmental relations, calls for a review of whether the existing Scotland Office should be replaced and suggests one option could be a new department of devolved nations and regions.

Ms Jardine said:

"There was clear evidence from those who have been at the centre of devolution over two decades that the intergovernmental framework needs to continue to develop. As a Scottish Liberal Democrat I see that has the potential to move us towards federalism.

"The committee heard evidence from both a former Liberal Democrat deputy First Minister and Labour First Minister that identified suggestions for improving the way the intergovernmental structure works.

"Lord Jim Wallace suggested a council of ministers of devolved administrations and Westminster on the European model, while the suggestion of a department of nations and regions has been muted before. Both suggestions have the potential to move us towards a federal structure.

"Certainly the Brexit process mess and disagreements over new powers and frameworks has underlined the need for a strong dispute resolution mechanism to be put in place.

"Scottish Liberal Democrats will continue to campaign for that and a federal structure as the logical and common sense conclusion to the devolution process."

If you enter your details on this website, the Liberal Democrats, locally and nationally, may use information in it, including your political views, to further our objectives, share it with
our elected representatives and/or contact you in future using any of the
means provided. Some contacts may be automated. You may opt out of some
or all contacts or exercise your other legal rights by contacting us.
Further details are in our Privacy Policy at banffandbuchanlibdems.org.uk/en/privacy